You might be forgiven for focusing on WPT Anchor Lynn Gilmartin, who is gracing the cover of the most recent issue of Bluff Magazine (we obviously wouldn’t blame you), but in that same issue is an article about the genesis and ongoing development of WPT Alpha8, the new high-stakes poker tour, including an interview with WPT President Adam Pliska and a look at the poker community’s reaction to the events and commentary for the TV show.
Here’s a quick snippet from the article:
High key lighting cuts down on the darkness and shadows. Minimalist design creates space around the table. The Alpha8-logo emblazoned burgundy felt with a white bumper on white flooring surrounded by white walls makes the game appear to be hovering in high stakes poker glory.
“It is bright. It looks aspirational. It is clean,” Pliska said. “If you’re changing the channel, you will notice it. You’ll notice something special is happening here. A look and a feel that is commensurate with where poker has come. It looks like a primetime show.”
It is also a nod to those who can shell out six figures or more to play cards.
“It emphasizes, or underscores, the fact that these players have stepped up to have an elite experience,” Pliska said. “And they are part of the poker elite.”
Read the rest of the article here:
Elite Seat: The WPT’s Alpha8 Experience
And then head over to the WPT Alpha8 site to learn more about upcoming events (WPT Alpha8 Johannesburg – Feb 14, 2014) and when viewers will be able to start watching the episodes on FS1 (March 16, 2014).